Our Creative director, Twizer Thomson, recently opened the floor to our community to ask questions that may have been on their mind for a while!
We’ve decided to publish part - one of the most interesting questions and Twizer’s answers!
🟢 ORIGIN & EARLY INSPIRATION
Take us back to the beginning—what was the moment you first realized you wanted to create Crooks and Candy?
I had this vision finding a way to express my art and share my experiences in a way people can relate to? At first, I created a brand called “TRUSS” (short for “trust”), but it didn’t truly connect with my creative spirit. Through my love of reading, I returned to one of the most inspiring novels—Of Mice and Men by John Steinbeck. That book was part of our school curriculum growing up, and it always stayed with me. The characters Crooks and Candy stood out, and from that, the brand name was born. It felt powerful, relatable, and rooted in storytelling.
What did your world look like before the brand existed? What were you rebelling against or trying to express?
I was processing the loss of my parents. It was a painful time, but that pain unlocked a deeper part of my creativity. I was writing music, poetry, and drawing constantly—it was therapy for me. But everything I created back then was filled with pain. I wasn’t in a good place mentally. Eventually, I transitioned that energy into designing clothes. I wanted to share my art with the world in a new way. Every design I create is like a canvas—there’s always a story behind it.
The name “Crooks and Candy” is striking. What’s the story behind it?
It came from my love of reading and wanting something authentic and relatable. If you went to school in the UK, chances are you’ve read Of Mice and Men. The characters Crooks and Candy represent voices we don’t usually hear from—marginalized but powerful. As a British brand, I wanted the name to connect with our culture and tell a story. “Crooks and Candy” feels layered—literary, familiar, and full of depth.
🟣 VISION & PHILOSOPHY
You’ve described your collections as pieces of art rather than just clothing. What does that mean to you personally?
To me, each design is an expression of motivation, identity, and happiness. Like walking through an art gallery—every piece holds a message, even if it’s unspoken. Some garments are bold, others subtle, but all are rooted in emotion and story. I focus on beauty, meaning, and presence—not just clothing.
How do you define artistic rebellion in the context of fashion?
It means standing out and going against the grain. It’s about stepping away from mainstream trends and creating your own voice. For me, it’s reclaiming power from systems, corporations, and safe choices. It’s not just about the look—it’s about what the look represents. Every Crooks & Candy piece is a statement.
Who do you picture wearing Crooks and Candy? Is there a type of person or mindset you design for?
I see Crooks & Candy being worn by people with quiet confidence—those who carry their story without needing to explain it. They turn heads without trying. They walk with edge, move with intention, and hold themselves with class.
Crooks & Candy isn’t just about clothes—it’s about a mindset. A symbol of resilience, ambition, and bold individuality. Some of our pieces say “Know Yourself”—because that’s who we design for. People who know who they are and don’t blend in. They lead with presence.
🟡 CREATIVE PROCESS & DESIGN
Can you walk us through your creative process—from a spark of an idea to a finished collection?
Designing is like working out—you can’t expect to perform at a high level if you don’t practice. I design almost every day and make sure something new is created every week. It’s therapeutic.
My process starts with what I see and feel. I draw rough sketches, play with concepts, place words, imagine how the piece would look on someone. Then I choose the fabric, match it with the right type of print and stitch. Over the years, I’ve learned how to match materials with design properly.
After that, I sample the piece. If something’s off, I go back and tweak it. It’s hands-on from start to finish.
What role does storytelling play in your designs? Is there always a narrative you’re trying to convey?
Always. Every piece tells a story. I don’t just create clothes—I build chapters. Whether the theme is struggle, perseverance, rebellion, or identity, there’s always something deeper.
I come from a place where being seen wasn’t easy. So when someone wears Crooks & Candy, I want them to feel understood—like they’re wearing a piece of their own story. Sometimes the message is loud, sometimes it’s subtle—but it’s always real.
What materials, textures, or techniques are you currently obsessed with?
Honestly, I’m all over the place! I’ll be obsessed with something for a few weeks, then switch it up. I get bored fast, so I keep exploring new fabrics, textures, and styles. I let creativity guide me—it keeps things fresh.
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